Lesson 7: Advanced melody and harmony techniques

Objective: Students will explore more complex melody and harmony techniques, including counterpoint and modulation. Materials: Computers with internet access, Soundation accounts, speakers, headphones, and optional MIDI controllers.

Activities:

1. 1
   Counterpoint basics (15 mins):

   • Introduction to counterpoint and how it adds complexity to music.
   • Demonstrate creating a simple counter-melody in Soundation.
2. 2
   Modulation techniques (15 mins):

   • Explain modulation and how it changes the key within a piece.
   • Demonstrate modulating from one key to another in a Soundation project.
3. 3
   Practice exercise (25 mins):

   • Students create a project incorporating counterpoint and a key modulation.
4. 4
   Discussion (5 mins):

   • Review and analyze the complexity added by counterpoint and modulation in student projects.

Assignment:

Develop a 16-bar composition that includes both counterpoint and at least one key modulation.

Tips:

• Counterpoint: Look at the underlying chords for inspiration on what notes can be used for the counterpoint melody.
• Key modulation: For a quick key change, duplicate the MIDI clips, select all the notes in the new clips, and use the arrow keys to transpose them up or down.